Earlier, Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express had derailed in Uttar Pradesh and last month there was a collision between the Kanchanjungha Express and a goods train.
Reasons for Train Accidents
- Under-investment in Railways: Slow expansion of rail network is leading to severe congestion and safety compromises.
- Derailments: They’re the highest reason for casualties (1127 derailments during 2017-21).
- Accidents due to failure of railway staff: Over 50% of accidents are due to lapses like carelessness in working, non-observance of safety rules, etc.
- Overworked loco-pilots exceed stipulated hours, increasing accident risk.
- Unmanned Railway Crossings: Land (encroachment and rehabilitation) issues and delay in completion of road over bridge/road under bridge.
Measures to improve Rail Safety
- Accelerate adoption of Linke Hoffman Busch (LHB) coaches to reduce casualties during derailments, as they don't pile up.
- Improve working conditions and amenities for loco-pilots to enhance performance.
- Standardize the location of signals based on visibility, braking distance, and train speed.
- Eliminate the remaining unmanned Railway crossings on metre and narrow gauge tracks.
- Accelerate the deployment of the KAVACH train collision avoidance system.
Steps taken to improve Rail safety
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